Looking for the best Christmas markets in Europe? Discover where to find Christmas lights, try festive foods, and enjoy holiday traditions. We’ll cover everything you need to know about markets in Alsace, Paris, Prague, Belgium, and more. Get ready to plan your ultimate Christmas adventure with this festive guide!
Vienna
Christmas Market in Vienna “Wiener Christkindlmarkt”
Vienna’s Rathausplatz Christmas Market, in front of the breathtaking City Hall, is one of the city’s most iconic festive attractions. With sparkling lights, an ice-skating rink, charming stalls, and a whimsical train ride for kids, it offers a classic holiday experience you won’t want to miss.
Dates & Opening hours
This Christmas market runs from November 15 to December 26, 2024, welcoming visitors daily from 10 AM to 10 PM. On December 24, it closes early at 6:30 PM.
What to do at the Christmas Market
Beyond savoring the hearty food and warm drinks from the stalls, the market offers plenty of entertainment for everyone to enjoy.
There is a carousel, workshops, a nativity trail and an ice rink.
The standard price is 10€ for adults and 7€ for chidren born in 2010 and younger. You can get a 10% discount if you buy the tickets online here.
Festive food at the Christmas Market
You can eat a variety of handmade sweet confections and over 15 stalls sell delicious things to eat like waffles, sausages, mulled cider and mulled wine and other regional delicacies, with some organic and vegetarian options, too.
You’ll find hearty meals ranging from noodles to potatoes, and even soup in bread bowls, often with meat or cheese included. Spaetzle are traditional German egg noodles, made by pressing dough through a strainer to create small, uneven pieces. Kaese Spaetzle, known as Kasnocken in Austria, is a cheesy dish, said to be the original mac and cheese, often topped with caramelized onions for extra flavor. You can also find Kasnocken served with meat like bacon, pulled pork, or a red sauce or pesto
Don’t forget to bring cash to pay for your food and drink, as credit is often not accepted.
Family Christmas activities
Inside the City Hall on the ground floor, there is an area dedicated to children, where they can learn how to make Christmas cookies or candles. You can also listen to international choirs singing carols with free entrance on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
If your children want to ice skate, the 140 square metre children’s ice skating area in the Rathauspark is the ideal opportunity to do so.
It seems like love is the theme for this market, because there will be a tree with heart shaped lights and stalls selling heart shaped waffles for the kids.
How to get there
The easiest way to reach the Rathausplatz Christmas Market is by public transport. Wiener Linien, Vienna’s public transport system, suggests taking the U2 subway line to Schottentor or the U3 line to Volkstheater.
You can also use tram lines 1, 2, 71, and D to the Parlament stop, or line 2 to the Rathaus stop. The Rathausplatz/Burgtheater stop will operate from November 15 to December 22 on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, as well as on December 25 and 26, from 3:00 PM to 10:30 PM, ensuring safe and convenient travel during busy times.
Download the Wiener Linien app to avoid confusion and travel confidently.
Where to see the Christmas lights in Vienna
The lights are on from mid-November through early January.
There are several streets in Vienna that are illuminated with Christmas lights. These streets include Graben, Kohlmarkt, and Kärntner Street.
Also see the lights in the Rathauspark on either side of the Christmas market.
Hotel recommendations in Vienna
Motel One Wien-Staatsoper: Central location near the opera and markets, offering modern and affordable rooms with private bathrooms starting at €100.
Vienna Lotus Apartments: Vienna Lotus Apartments offers a private one-bedroom apartment with an en-suite bathroom and a fully equipped kitchen. Located near Wiener Stadthalle and Vienna City Hall, it’s ideal for exploring the city. Guests enjoy modern amenities like free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, and a private entrance. This is a great option for travelers seeking privacy and convenience .
Watch: Best Christmas Markets in Europe 2024 | The Ultimate Christmas Market Guide!
Christmas Markets in Alsace
There are many incredible Christmas market in the Alsace region. Check out our blog posts about the must-see towns in Alsace during Christmas: Colmar, Eguisheim, Riquewihr and Kaysersberg.
However, in this blog post we will be covering all the details about the main Christmas market in Strasbourg, considered thr Capital of Christmas.
Strasbourg “Cathedral Market (Place de la Cathédrale)”
First held in 1570, it is one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe and, for a long time, was the only one in France.
Dates & Opening hours
The Christmas market in Strasbourg will be open from the 27th of November until the 27th of December 2024. The Christmas Market is open from 2 pm on 27th of November until 9 pm on December 27th. The chalets are open from 11:30 am to 9 pm every day*.
*Except on December 24 and 25, when the hours are from 11:30 am to 6 pm. On December 25 and 26, some stalls may be closed, as opening is at the discretion of the vendors.
What to do at the Christmas Market
Take a photo under the Christkindelsmärik arch to have a memory of your time in Strasbourg at Christmas.
Take a stroll through all the side streets of the Notre-Dame Cathedral and see all the Christmas lights. If you walk from Place de la Cathédrale towards Place Kléber, you will come across another Christmas market you can try called Le Marché du Carré d’Or.
Festive food at the Christmas Market
Located by the Strasbourg Cathedral, this iconic market dazzles visitors with holiday lights and features artisanal stalls showcasing handcrafted gifts, making it perfect for soaking in the historic setting. Strasbourg’s Christmas markets also offer a variety of festive treats:
Mulled wine (vin chaud), made with spiced red or white wine, is perfect for keeping warm while exploring.
Bretzels, soft pretzels sprinkled with coarse salt, come in both savory and sweet varieties, making them an ideal snack.
Flammekueche, or Tarte Flambée, is an Alsatian favorite resembling a thin pizza, traditionally topped with crème fraîche, bacon, and onions.
Bredle, delightful Alsatian biscuits like Butterbredle and Anisbredle, are popular gifts and can be found at market stalls.
Christmas beer, whose tradition dates back to the 16th century, is dense, spicy and has a strong taste of hops. It was offered to employees and customers of breweries as a New Year’s gift.
For something hearty, try Choucroute, a traditional Alsatian dish of fermented cabbage served with sausages, perfect for cold winter days.
How to get there
To reach Strasbourg’s Christmas markets by public transport:
• Tram: Take Line A or D to Homme de Fer (near Place Kléber) or Line B or F to Broglie (near Place Broglie).
• Bus: Many buses stop at Place de l’Homme de Fer, a short walk from the markets.
From Paris:
By Train: The TGV (high-speed train) from Paris Gare de l’Est to Strasbourg takes aprox 2 hours.
By Car: Via the A4 motorway takes about 5 hours and 30 minutes.
From Lyon:
By Train: Direct TGV (high-speed train) from Lyon Part-Dieu to Strasbourg takes aprox 4 hours.
By Car: Via the A4 motorway takes about 5 hours and 30 minutes.
Where to see the Christmas lights in Strasbourg
In Strasbourg during Christmas, you’ll find stunning displays of lights throughout the city, adding to the festive atmosphere. One of the highlights, is the Grand Sapin at Place Kléber, where a magnificent 30-meter tall Christmas tree will light up daily between 4 PM and 9 PM, featuring a delightful light show set to music.
Stroll down Rue des Orfèvres, a popular street full of Christmas lights, and end up at the Notre-Dame Cathedral.
In Rue de la Mésange, 22 giant trees with gold and white lights have been installed, giving the street a magical feel. This enchanting forest continues on to Place Saint-Pierre-le-Jeune, where the centuries-old trees in the square are illuminated.
Hotel Recommendations in Strasbourg
Hôtel ORIGAMI: Modern design, highly rated, and only a few minutes from the tram station, offering easy access to the Christmas markets. Rooms are clean and comfortable, starting at around €80-100 per night.
La Maison de Caroline: 30 mins away from the city centre by car, this is a great option if you have your own car or a rental.
Christmas Markets in Belgium
We have covered all the details about spending Christmas in Brussels, Ghent & Bruges. Check out our extended blog posts about Christmas markets, Christmas lights, festive food, public transport & more.
Christmas in Brussels
“WINTER WONDERS” OR “PLAISIRS D’HIVER”
Winter Wonders is a 2 km (1.2 mile) long Christmas market with over 200 stalls and entertainment. Starting at Grand Place with a tall sparkling Christmas tree and finishing at Place St-Catherine with a long line of stalls and a carousel and a ferris wheel. You can find more markets and festive entertainment in Place de la Monnaie, Bd. Anspach and Place de la Brouckère.
Dates & Opening hours
The dates are already set, it will be open from November 29th, 2024, to January 5th, 2025!
The event is open every day from 12pm to 10pm except on 24 and 31 December and 5 January it closes at 6pm.
What to do at the Christmas Market
The Sound and Light Show at Brussels’ Grand Place is a magical highlight of the Christmas season, transforming the historic square into a dazzling wonderland. They project colorful lights onto the Town Hall and guildhalls, choreographed to music that blends classical and modern sounds. Each year, there’s a unique theme, featuring a different artist. It’s a free, must-see spectacle that captures the festive spirit of Brussels.
The shows run from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., starting every hour Monday to Thursday and every 30 minutes Friday to Sunday. Please note there will be no shows on Tuesday, December 24, or Tuesday, December 31.
Go ice skating in Place De Brouckère from 12 pm to 10pm! There is an area for toddlers, and you can rent skates that go over your shoes. The large rink is completely covered by a transparent roof. The standard price is 10€ and it is not possible to book in advance.
Festive food at the Christmas Market
Of course they sell Belgian waffles at the Christmas Market as well and plenty of mulled wine to go around.
Maison Dandoy is a popular place to get Belgian waffles in Brussels, and they are delicious, but it missed the “wow factor” for us. The best ones we had were at Belgian Waffles, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside with lots of delicious toppings. Both of these options are by the Grand-Place, so if you’re in the area, why not try both?
Family Christmas activities
As well as ice skating, there is an area on the ice to play some ice curling, a really fun sport to play in a group.
There are also many carousels and a ferris wheel for some extra fun!
How to get there
To get to the Winter Wonders Christmas Market in Brussels (centered around Grand Place, Place de la Bourse, and Place Sainte-Catherine):
• Metro: Take Line 1 or Line 5 to De Brouckère or Gare Centrale. Both stops are a short walk to the markets.
• Tram: Use Tram 3 or Tram 4 and get off at De Brouckère.
• Bus: Many city buses, including Lines 29, 66, or 71, stop at De Brouckère, near the market.
Walking from Brussels Central Station is another option; it’s just 5–10 minutes to Grand Place.
Where to see the Christmas Lights in Brussels
Grand Place: Known for its breathtaking light and sound show featuring projections on the historic buildings. It takes place every hour from 5pm, and every 30 minutes on weekends.
Rue Neuve and Place de la Monnaie: These are popular shopping streets beautifully decorated with festive lights, creating a magical atmosphere for holiday shoppers.
Avenue Louise: This upscale shopping avenue is illuminated with elegant and modern light displays.
Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert: This historic arcade is stunningly decorated with lights and offers a charming, covered promenade.
Sablon District: This area combines festive lighting with a more intimate, cozy atmosphere, perfect for strolling while enjoying its chocolate shops and art galleries.
6. Place Sainte-Catherine and the Winter Wonders area: These spaces are part of the famous Winter Wonders festival and feature vibrant light installations, along with the Christmas market and ice skating rink.
Hotel recommendations in Brussels
B&B Hotel: B&B Hotels are known for offering clean, comfortable, and affordable stays, making them a great choice for budget travelers who still want quality accommodations. The B&B Hotel Brussels Centre Louise is located near Metro Line 2 and 6 (stop: Louise) and Tram Lines 92 and 93, giving you easy access to explore the city.
Radisson RED Brussels: a trendy hotel known for its modern design, fun vibe, and focus on art and creativity, perfect for travelers looking for a stylish stay. It’s conveniently located near Trône Metro Station (Lines 2 and 6) and Ixelles-Elsene Tram Stop (Lines 93 and 94), making it easy to get around Brussels.
NH Collection Brussels Centre: an elegant hotel known for its spacious rooms and rooftop terrace with stunning city views, perfect for travelers seeking a touch of sophistication. The nearest metro stop is De Brouckère (Lines 1 and 5), just a 2-minute walk away. It’s also a 5-minute walk to Grand Place, Brussels’ famous central square, making it an ideal base for sightseeing.
Christmas Markets in Paris
La Magie de Noël in the Tuileries Gardens
There are many amazing Christmas markets in Paris, so if you are traveling there for Christmas, read our extended blog post on all things Christmas in Paris. However, in this post we are going over the biggest one in the city.
Dates & Opening hours
Dates: November 16, 2024 – January 5, 2025
Opening Hours: Monday-Thursday: 11am-11pm; Friday-Saturday: 11am-12:45am; Sunday: 11am-11:45pm; Christmas and New Year’s Eve: 11am-9pm
Festive food at the Christmas Market
You can enjoy comforting French favourites like raclette, which is warm melted cheese over potatoes, and tartiflette, a rich dish made with cheese, bacon, and potatoes. For something sweet, there are freshly made crêpes with a variety of toppings, like nutella. To keep warm on chilly winter nights, grab a cup of spiced mulled wine (vin chaud).
You’ll find everything from snacks like hot waffles with toppings, crepes, and croque madames to hearty options like sausages, cheeses, and regional specialties. They also serve casual meals, including burgers, steak-frites, and onion soup. For those with a sweet tooth, chalets offer chocolates, specialty candies, and nougats from the South of France.
What to do at the Christmas Market
Visit L’Aventure de Noël (“Christmas Adventure”) for an exciting mix of thrills, featuring a maze, spooky monsters and clowns, viewing platforms, multiple Santas, and enclosed circular slides similar to toboggans for a safe, fun ride.
For something more “relaxed”, try Le Manoir de Noël (“Christmas House”), which emphasizes fun Christmas and special lighting effects.
And, of course, you can’t miss the giant ferris wheel shadowing the entire market.
How to get there
The closest metro station to the Tuileries Gardens (right next to the Louvre) is Tuileries (Line 1), located just a short walk from the garden entrance. Alternatively, Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre (Lines 1 and 7) is about a 10-minute walk away, providing access to both the Louvre and the gardens.
Where to see the Christmas lights in Paris
Paris truly shines as the City of Lights during Christmas, with several stunning displays across the city. A highlight is the Champs-Élysées, where over a million lights illuminate the avenue, creating a festive atmosphere from late November to early January.
Another must-see is Avenue Montaigne, where luxury boutiques are adorned with elegant Christmas lights. For a more panoramic view, head to Montparnasse Tower or the Ferris wheel at Place de la Concorde.
Seeing the Eiffel Tower sparkle isn’t necessarily just a Christmas activity, but it does add a magical vibe to the whole experience.
The Eiffel Tower sparkles every evening in December, with the light show starting at dusk and continuing for about 5 minutes every hour until 1 AM. This display features 20,000 light bulbs that flash in a sparkling effect, creating a mesmerizing view.
Hotel recommendations in Paris
Hôtel Darcet: Located near Montmartre and metro stations, this affordable hotel offers private rooms with en-suite bathrooms starting at €90.
Ibis Styles Paris Nation Cours de Vincennes: Convenient for metro access to central attractions and markets, offering comfortable private rooms starting at €85.
Hôtel des Grands Boulevards: Central location with chic, modern rooms near Opéra Garnier and Christmas markets, starting at €100.
Christmas Market in Cologne Germany
Weihnachtsmarkt am Kölner Dom
In the middle of Cologne, the Christmas market at Cologne Cathedral (Weihnachtsmarkt am Kölner Dom) awaits its visitors with a huge decorated Christmas tree and countless red huts.
Dates & Opening hours
This market runs from November 21st to December 23rd.
Hours are 11 AM to 10 PM most days, with reduced hours from Sundays to Wednesdays.
Festive food at the Christmas Market
Reibekuchen: Crispy German potato pancakes often served with applesauce.
Sizzling German sausages: Juicy, flavorful sausages grilled to perfection, like bratwurst or currywurst.
Roasted chestnuts: Warm, sweet nuts roasted over an open fire, perfect for cold weather.
Mulled wine or glühwein: Hot spiced red wine with cinnamon, cloves and orange, a cozy winter drink.
German beer: Famous for its rich, smooth taste and long brewing tradition. The local beer in Cologne, Germany, is Kölsch. It’s a light, crisp, and slightly fruity pale ale.
Soft pretzels: Freshly baked, chewy bread with a salty crust, great as a snack.
What to do at the Christmas Market
The ice skating experience at Heinzels Wintermärchen in Cologne is part of its magical Christmas and winter attractions. Located at Heumarkt, the ice rink is one of Germany’s largest outdoor skating areas. It features an 1,800 square-meter ice landscape, including a 100-meter skating track that circles around the equestrian monument.
It’s open daily from November 25, 2024, to January 5, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM (with reduced hours after December 26). Note that it is closed on December 24 and 25.
In addition to ice skating, you can enjoy Bavarian curling lanes and a festive atmosphere alongside Cologne’s historic Christmas market.
For more details, visit the official site.
From Tuesday to Thursday there is a children’s programme at the Christmas market with Punch, shows, face painting and plays.
How to get there
To reach the main Christmas market at the Cologne Cathedral by public transportation:
1. By Train: Take any regional, intercity, or S-Bahn train to Köln Hauptbahnhof (Cologne Central Station), which is just a short walk from the cathedral.
2. By Tram or Bus: Use tram lines 16 or 18 or bus lines 132 or 133 to get to Dom/Hauptbahnhof stop.
Once you arrive, the market is right outside the cathedral. It’s well-signposted and easy to find.
Dowload Cologne’s public transport app, KVB-App.
Hotel recommendations in Cologne
Hotel zur Malzmühle: Located near Heumarkt and the Cologne Cathedral, this boutique hotel offers cozy private rooms with en-suite facilities starting at €100.
Motel One Köln-Waidmarkt: Affordable, stylish hotel near the market areas, with private rooms starting at €100.
Christmas Market in Freiburg
Traveling to Freiburg this Christmas, chech out our extended blog post with more information about the city here.
Nestled in the heart of Germany’s Black Forest, Freiburg im Breisgau transforms into a charming Christmas wonderland during the festive season. With its picturesque old town, cobblestone streets, and cozy market stalls, this Christmas market is perfect for soaking up the holiday spirit in one of Germany’s sunniest cities.
Dates and Opening Hours
The Freiburg Christmas Market runs from November 21st to December 23rd. Most days, the market opens from 10 AM to 8:30 PM, giving you plenty of time to explore its festive delights.
Festive Food to Try
Freiburg’s Christmas market offers a delicious variety of traditional treats and regional specialties that will have your taste buds singing carols!
Flammkuchen: A local favorite, this thin flatbread is topped with crème fraîche, onions, and smoky bacon before being baked to crispy perfection. It’s a must-try while you stroll through the market!
Bratwurst: Juicy, grilled to perfection, and served in a crispy roll, this German classic is the ultimate street food for any Christmas market-goer.
Black Forest Ham: A specialty of the region, this cured and smoky ham pairs beautifully with rustic bread or cheese. It’s a taste of the Black Forest you won’t want to miss.
Roasted Chestnuts: Warm, fragrant, and slightly sweet, these are perfect for keeping your hands warm on chilly nights.
Mulled Wine (Glühwein): Sip on this warm, spiced wine as you take in the festive atmosphere. For a local twist, try the cherry-flavored mulled wine made from Black Forest cherries!
What to Do or Family Activities
The Freiburg Christmas Market offers more than just food and shopping—there’s something for everyone!
Craft Workshops: Kids and adults alike can get creative at the craft workshops, where you can try your hand at making candles or Christmas decorations.
Ice Skating: Just a short walk from the market, the temporary ice rink offers fun for the whole family. Rent some skates and glide across the ice under twinkling lights.
Live Music and Performances: Throughout the season, the market hosts choirs, musicians, and other performers who bring festive cheer to the streets of Freiburg.
How to get there
If you’re traveling by train, Freiburg Hauptbahnhof (the main station) is just a short walk from the market. Local trams, including lines 1, 2, 3, and 5, also stop close by, making it easy to reach the old town without the hassle of finding parking.
Christmas Market in Frankfurt
One of the most popular Frankfurt Christmas markets is the one located in the city’s historic square, called Weihnachtsmarkt am Römerberg. Here, you’ll find a beautiful Christmas tree, live music, and over 150 stalls selling everything from gingerbread to handmade jewellery and drinks, set against the backdrop of the Old Town and Paulsplatz.
Dates and Opening Hours
This Christmas market will be open from the 25th of November until the 22nd of December.
Monday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Festive Food to Try
There are numerous stalls, offering an array of food and drinks, including the traditional German sausage (Bratwurst) and, of course, German beer or mulled wine! If you’re looking for something stronger, try Eierpunsch similar to eggnog! It is made up of eggs, rum, spices, white wine and topped with cream!
The local beer in Frankfurt is called Ebbelwoi (or Äppelwoi), which is a traditional German cider rather than a beer. It’s a tart, fermented apple drink that’s highly popular in the region. If you’re looking for actual beer, Frankfurt breweries like Binding and Brauerei Faust offer local brews. However, Ebbelwoi is the signature drink of Frankfurt!
What to Do or Family Activities
You can’t miss the famous carousel, situated in the iconic Römer!
Starting Monday, November 25th, and every Wednesday evening after, the Tower Horns will play from the gallery of St. Nicholas Church, filling the Römerberg with festive Christmas spirit. From the church’s roof gallery at the southern end of the Römerberg, the ensemble’s Christmas melodies can be heard at 6:00 p.m.
The Grand Bell Ringing of Frankfurt, known as the Frankfurter Stadtgeläut, takes place on Saturday, November 30th (4:30–5:00 p.m.) and Tuesday, December 24th (5:00–5:30 p.m.), with 10 churches and their bells filling the city with a spectacular symphony. Highlights include Kaiserdom’s 9 bells, Paulskirche’s 6, and many more, creating a breathtaking tradition.
How to get there
To get to the Weihnachtsmarkt am Römerberg in Frankfurt using public transportation:
1. By Train: Take any S-Bahn or regional train to Frankfurt Hauptwache or Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof (Central Station). From there, transfer to the U-Bahn.
2. By U-Bahn: Take U4 or U5 to Dom/Römer station, which is just a short walk from the market.
3. By Tram: Use tram lines 11 or 12 and get off at Römer/Paulskirche.
The market is located in the Römerberg square, a few minutes from the stops. It’s well-signposted and easy to spot!
Christmas Market in Madrid
If you’re spending Christmas in Madrid, one place you absolutely cannot miss is the Christmas Market at Plaza de España. Nestled in the heart of the city, this market is a hub of holiday cheer, combining festive vibes with Madrid’s unique charm.
Dates and Opening Hours
The Christmas market at Plaza de España will run from the 23rd of November to the 6th of January. Most stalls open around 10 AM and stay open until 10 PM, though hours may extend on weekends and during peak holiday days. It’s the perfect spot for both daytime exploring and a cozy evening stroll.
Festive Food to Try
The Plaza de España Christmas Market is a treat for foodies, with a mix of classic Spanish Christmas flavors and festive market favorites:
Churros and Hot Chocolate (Churros con chocolate): Warm up with crispy churros paired with Madrid’s signature thick, velvety hot chocolate. San Ginés, a popular place to get churros in Madrid, will have their own stall like each year.
Turrón: This almond nougat candy is a Spanish holiday staple. Look out for modern twists like chocolate-covered turrón or varieties with dried fruits for a unique spin.
Castañas asadas, or roasted chestnuts.
What to Do or Family Activities
Plaza de España’s Christmas Market is more than just shopping—it’s a festive experience the whole family can enjoy.
Make a reservation at their Alpine restaurant in a wooden hut, with heaters and blankets, looking over the Christmas Market.
Shop for Unique Gifts: Browse stalls offering handmade crafts, ornaments, and artisanal goods. It’s the perfect place to pick up a one-of-a-kind souvenir or gift.
Ride the Carousel: which is a 5 minute walk from the market, right next to the Royal Palace
Grab something to eat or drink and sit at one of the tables looking over the ice rink.
Go Ice skating: Enjoy a 450m² ice rink with real ice. We recommend you buy your tickets online in advance, as the line can get long. Book your tickets here.
How to get there
Reaching Plaza de España is easy with Madrid’s reliable public transport system:
Metro: Take Line 3 or Line 10 to the Plaza de España station, which brings you directly to the market.
Bus: Numerous EMT buses stop near Plaza de España, making it accessible from almost anywhere in the city.
Walking: If you’re staying near Gran Vía or the city center, Plaza de España is just a short walk away, allowing you to take in the holiday lights and atmosphere as you go.
Hotel recommendations in Madrid
Only You Boutique Hotel Madrid Located between Plaza de Colón (Colón metro station), Chueca metro station and Fuente de Cibeles (Banco de España metro station). Just a 5 min walk from the Plaza de Colón Christmas Market.
The Dear Hotel located on the corner of Gran Vía and Calle de los Reyes (with a view of the Plaza de España Christmas Market “La Navideña”). The closest metro station is Plaza de España, or Santo Domingo which is 4 mins away by foot.
Gran Hotel Inglés Madrid Located in El Barrio de las Letras, just a 5-10 min walk from Sol metro station (where you can enjoy the turning on of the Christmas lights on the 28th of November at 19h).
Christmas Market in Prague
The Prague Christmas Market at Old Town Square is an enchanting experience with a towering Christmas tree and stalls. This market is one of the most iconic in Europe, offering a perfect blend of charm, history, and festive spirit.
Dates and Opening Hours
The Old Town Square Christmas Market runs from November 30, 2024, to January 6, 2025.
Market Hours: Open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Food stalls stay open until midnight, giving you plenty of time to savor the festive treats.
Festive Food at the Market
Prague’s Christmas market is a foodie’s paradise, offering both traditional Czech and international delights. Highlights include:
Prague Ham (Pražská šunka): This slow-roasted ham is cooked over open wood fires. Be mindful of portion sizes when ordering, as prices are often by weight.
Trdelník: A sweet, doughy pastry rolled in sugar and nuts, often filled with ice cream. It’s not originally Czech but has become a market staple.
Mulled Wine (Svařák): A warm, spiced drink served in festive mugs—a must-try for embracing the holiday spirit.
Potato Pancakes (Bramboráky): Savory, crispy potato cakes that make a perfect winter snack.
Czech Beer: The regional beer in Prague is Pilsner-style lager, with the most famous being Pilsner Urquell (Pilsner originated in the Czech Republic). However, Prague is also home to many local breweries and popular Czech beers like Staropramen (brewed in Prague), Budweiser Budvar (the Czech version), and Kozel.
How to Get There
Prague’s Old Town Square is centrally located and easy to reach:
Metro: Take Line A or B to Můstek station, or Line A to Staroměstská.
Tram: Lines 2, 17, and 18 stop near the square.
Hotel Recommendations in Prague
Hotel Duo: Hotel Duo in Prague is a modern and highly-rated accommodation offering everything you need for a comfortable stay. Situated near the Střížkov metro station, it provides quick access to Prague’s city center in just 12 minutes, making it ideal for exploring the Christmas markets and other attractions.
Motel One Prague-Florentinum: Stylish design, centrally located, and very close to the main attractions and markets. Rates start at €100.
OREA Hotel Pyramida Praha: OREA Hotel Pyramida Praha offers private rooms with en-suite bathrooms and amenities like an indoor pool, sauna, fitness center, and two on-site restaurants. Conveniently located near Prague Castle and just steps from the Malovanka tram stop, it’s ideal for exploring the city while enjoying comfort and excellent service.
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